Solomon Islands advances key infrastructure projects with Saudi Fund support, including Bina Harbour and Dala–Atori Road.
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele met with Sultan bin Abdulrahman Al-Marshad, Chief Executive Officer of the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD), during bilateral discussions in Vienna, Austria, yesterday.
The meeting focused on receiving updates on the processes and requirements for accessing development funding from the SFD. This follows formal submissions by the Solomon Islands Government for two key national projects: the Bina Harbour and tuna processing facility, and the Dala–Atori Road sealing project. A third proposal—a renewable energy project for the Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC)—was also discussed.
The Bina Harbour and tuna processing facility is a flagship national initiative, with an estimated cost of approximately USD 200 million. Once completed, it will establish a modern, fully integrated tuna processing plant and port infrastructure at Bina in Malaita Province. The project includes the construction of a wharf, onshore processing facilities, utilities, and supporting infrastructure. It is expected to boost the fisheries sector, create employment opportunities, and strengthen the country’s position in the regional and global tuna industry.
The second project, the Dala–Atori Road sealing initiative, aims to upgrade and seal a key transport corridor in Malaita Province. The improved road is expected to enhance rural connectivity, reduce travel time, and support economic activity by improving access to markets and essential services.
Prime Minister Manele thanked Al-Marshad for the update and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to working with relevant stakeholders to advance both projects through the necessary funding and technical review processes.
“I appreciate the information provided on the processes and implementation steps. We will engage with stakeholders on the ground to ensure the implementation work is carried out effectively,” Manele said.
Al-Marshad confirmed that once the technical and other implementation processes are completed, the proposals will be presented to the Saudi Fund’s board for consideration.
“Once the technical processes and other implementation stages are done, we will present the proposals to the board,” he said.
He also emphasized the importance of progressing the renewable energy project, which is jointly funded by the SFD and the Asian Development Bank.
Since taking office in 2024, the Manele Government has prioritized securing funding and support for critical infrastructure projects aimed at driving economic growth and improving service delivery. While initial engagements with the Saudi Fund began prior to 2024, the current administration is taking active steps to ensure all project requirements are met so that implementation can proceed once funding is secured.
The Solomon Islands Government remains committed to working in partnership with development agencies to deliver on its national priorities and long-term development goals.
SOURCE: PMO PRESS
